Description

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory marinara and ground beef. This layered pasta bake features a rich cream cheese filling, tender spaghetti, and a golden mozzarella-Parmesan topping that bubbles to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead-friendly dish that’s perfect for family dinners and potlucks!

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti noodles
Salt for boiling water
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
1 lb ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with minced garlic and Italian seasoning until smooth.

4. Brown the Ground Beef:

In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned.
Drain excess fat.

5. Layer the Casserole:

In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti.
Spread half the cream cheese mixture over it.
Add half the marinara sauce, then sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.

6. Bake the Casserole:

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors!

Notes

Swap marinara for spicy arrabbiata for a kick.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture.

Great for freezing and reheating later.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American